Restoring a 351 Cleveland Engine: Machining, Sleeving, and Upgrades

- Authors
- Published on
- Published on
- Name
- By Dushyant
- (@dishs)
In this episode of Hagerty's Red Line Rebuild, the team dives into the nitty-gritty of restoring a 351 Cleveland engine. They waste no time and get straight to work, starting with the meticulous process of machining the block and heads. With the block and heads cleaned up, they carefully inspect for cracks and rusted cylinders, making sure to address any issues they come across.
One of the challenges they face is a rusted hole in one of the cylinders, which requires them to sleeve it. They discuss the options of using a standard sleeve or going up to 30, ultimately deciding to match it to the rest of the engine at 30. They also take the time to explain the importance of deck squaring and line honing the block to ensure everything is aligned and balanced.
Moving on to the cylinder heads, they encounter pitted and nasty seats that need to be replaced. They go through the process of installing guide liners and cutting new seats, ensuring optimal performance. But they don't stop there; they decide to upgrade the rocker setup to an adjustable roller setup, providing better control and adjustability.
Throughout the episode, the team showcases their expertise and attention to detail, tackling each challenge with precision. With the block and heads now ready for assembly, they are one step closer to bringing this 351 Cleveland engine back to life. Stay tuned for the next episode as the team continues their journey towards restoration perfection.

Image copyright Youtube

Image copyright Youtube

Image copyright Youtube

Image copyright Youtube
Watch Crusty Ford V-8 engine from our Pantera goes to the machine shop on Youtube
Viewer Reactions for Crusty Ford V-8 engine from our Pantera goes to the machine shop
The machine shop is underappreciated and there is a need for more people going to school for machining.
The Hagerty Team should run a training program for machining.
Viewers appreciate the return to classic Redline Rebuild content.
Appreciation for showing the process of sending a block to a machine shop.
Speculation on whether some engines left the factory with deficiencies.
Excitement for the Pantera to be back on the road.
Suggestions for alternative methods to restrict oil in the top end.
Positive feedback on the quality of the work and the content.
Appreciation for the knowledge and passion of the team.
Curiosity about the cost of the machining process.
Related Articles

Discovering a Vintage 1977 Bronco: A Classic Gem in Mississippi
Hagerty explores Mississippi, discovering a rare 1977 Bronco with disc brakes, V8 302 engine, and potential value over $200,000. Off-road ready and rich in history, this classic gem awaits restoration.

Sun Kang Collaborates with Veilside: Building a Modern Classic Car
Sun Kang partners with Veilside to build a modern classic car, blending heritage with innovation. The project showcases the beauty of preserving vintage cars while infusing them with a contemporary twist, appealing to car enthusiasts worldwide.

Exploring Unique Porsche 911 Variants: RUF CTR and 930 TAG Turbo
Explore Hagerty's in-depth look at unique Porsche 911 variants like the RUF CTR with a Formula 1 engine and the 930 TAG Turbo featuring a McLaren F1 powerhouse. Discover the engineering marvels and driving experiences of these high-performance vehicles.

Liberty Walk Unveils Rare Lamborghini Mira Body Kit at 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon
Liberty Walk unveils a body kit for the rare Lamborghini Mira at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon, valued at $2 million. The team showcases the Mira at unique locations like a 7-Eleven and the Tsukiji fish market, highlighting their dedication to innovation in Japanese tuning culture.